Police Picks Ex-perm secs, accountants, cashier in Benue over N107bn loot.

Two retired permanent secretaries, six accountants and cashier in Benue State have been picked by security operatives for their alleged involvement in looting N107 billion from the state treasury during the last administration.

Nine persons were whisked away to Abuja for questioning by operatives from the Force Headquarters, where they would be made to explain their roles in the alleged fraud.

When contacted, Benue State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Michael Gusa, who confirmed the arrests, said: “The two retired permanent secretaries, accountants and cashier were picked for questioning by police.
“They are to explain their roles in the misapplication of the state's funds in their respective offices.

"This government is not witch hunting anybody; we are following due process and also applying the principles of Rule of Law.

“So their arrest is in furtherance of the moves and determination of the Governor Samuel Ortom-led administration to recover over N107 billion looted from the state treasury during the last administration in the state and we will sustain this till all the funds are recovered.

“So far, some damning documents and items have been recovered from the affected persons, some of whom have also willingly made useful statements to the police to aid the ongoing investigations.”

When contacted, Benue State Police Commissioner, Mr. Bashir Makama, who confirmed the arrest, said: “The suspects have been moved to Abuja for questioning.”

Vanguard